A Nice Review of the BBR.

Don't know how I missed this, but The Loyola Phoenix had a nice article about the Belmont Burlesque Review in their November issue. It gives a really nuanced view of the show, pointing out that it's playful and fun and not at all creepy or seedy. Sometimes, it's hard to convey that to somebody, when I'm talking about the show. But this review does a nice job of it. To read the original article, you can click here. (I also get a nice mention, so that has made my day.)

Looking to show a date that you have a risque side? Just want a place to go with your buddies that's BYOB and maybe has, shall we say, a little more "upscale" entertainment? The Playground Theater offers you just that, with its once-a-month offering, "Belmont Burlesque Revue." The show's creator, and subsequent host, Mark Henderson says the show "is like nothing else that can be seen in the city."

It's not a strip show by any means, though there are some rather dicey dance numbers; rather, it is a throwback to the old days of burlesque where the women danced - in a tasteful manner - and the other entertainment offered the audience a belly laugh or a little sleight of hand.

Outside The Playground, there's usually a line stretching down to the corner of Belmont Avenue and Halsted Street. The show is known to sell out quickly, so order tickets early online to avoid the long waitlist line. The theater is a small jewel in the Chicago improv crown, offering an intimate black box setting with four rows of seating and chairs with movie theater style comfort.

Before you have the chance to sit down, you'll be greeted by your host for the night, Jack Midnight (Henderson), dressed like Dean Martin with Converse tennis shoes. The sounds of Frank Sinatra float through the dimly-lit room as you make your way to your seat. Do not be surprised if, on your way, you are also greeted by the Bombshells, offering to sell you some candy or gum before the show begins. Drop a tip in their jar, and you may even get a kiss blown back at you.

As the show begins, the lights dim fully and the crowd begins to thunder with applause for the monthly tradition that has garnered such a loyal following. Jack Midnight greets the thunderous crowd and suggests that everyone raise a glass for the first toast of the night; there are many toasts throughout the night, so if you are of age, you can bring a case of the cheapest beer you can afford and a liver that can go. And if you're not of age, feel free to get comfortable while everyone else settles and Henderson launches into his first Sinatra cover of the night, "Fly Me To The Moon."

Now that you're comfortable and feeling right at home, it's time to bring on the first dance routine of the night. The Bombshells are a wonderful crew of female performers from around the city and have performed all over town, offering their brand of entertainment, which often leaves them left in nothing more than pasties and panties. After each of their three or four routines, the show's stagehand, Second Cousin Joe (Mr.B), is seen bumbling onto the stage, picking up the girl's "unmentionables" and gawking at them as they leave. Hilarious banter that only B. and Henderson can improvise usually follows and keeps the air of the night light and playful and not dark and creepy at all - for anyone who thinks this may be some dingy strip club.

The show is also diced up with priceless performances from stand up comics and magicians alike from around the city looking to ply their craft for an attentive crowd ready for some wonderful entertainment.

A great time if you are looking to have one, "Belmont Burlesque Revue" plays the third Saturday of every month at The Playground Theater, located at 3209 Halsted St.

Tickets are $10. For more information, visit the Belmont Burlesque web site at www.belmontburlesque.com.

Nice.

Cheers all,
Mr.B

PS. There are still 2 more chances to catch the BBRs Holiday Spectacular show, "Jingle Belles: The Naughty List" on either Dec. 9th or 16th. Make Reservations because the show DOES sell out. And you don't want to miss this one, kiddies! It's a LOT of fun. Check out the website for more info!